Striking elevator workers picket downtown Toronto

A few hundred striking elevator workers took to the streets in downtown Toronto on Thursday, congregating with picket signs at Yonge-Dundas Square before marching to city hall.

Workers with International Union of Elevator Constructors Locals (IUEC) 50, 96 and 90 have been on strike since May 1 after talks broke down.

It’s the first time the three Ontario locals have gone on strike in over 20 years.

Brad Farrell, Business Rep for Local 50, said the union presented an offer last week, but it was rejected.

“Our negotiating committee was ordered back to the table last Thursday and Friday by the Ministry of Labour and talks did break off after an excellent offer was presented by our side,” he said. “Management walked away from the table…hence, we’re here today.”

The union previously said the employer has agreed to a pay hike but will not budge on other issues including overtime pay and travel time.

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